Newcastle United head into Monday’s trip to Leeds under Matthias Jessel, with the Magpies not losing since the German replaced Eddie Howe in the summer.
Early signs suggest that Jasler’s Newcastle will be one of the most exciting teams in the Premier League this season, with goals pouring in from the other end of the pitch.
The manager spoke of the likelihood of his side conceding a goal before the trip to Elland Road: “You can see that but you can also see the fact that we’ve been playing against very strong opponents in recent games but that’s also an area where we can improve.
“Especially after I would say a lot of shots, our defense or the team as a whole didn’t have the best clearance or they ended up getting a second shot, a third shot.
“So we’re aware of the situation, but we’re also seeing the whole situation. I mean what I’m saying. Statistics are good and I like to look at them, but you always see everything you need to see in the big picture.”
The fragility of this defense was exposed in their recent game at St James’ Park, with Bournemouth being the better team for much of the first half and looking the more likely win before Newcastle struck back. It was arguably the Magpies’ worst 45 minutes of the season so far, with the Cherries scoring every second ball until Harvey Barnes suddenly struck a lifeline.
It was during that game that Jessel found himself in referee Rob Jones’ book, actively encouraging the player from the touchline and warning him not to stray from the technical area.
Ahead of Leeds, the Newcastle boss made his feelings about the decision clear, appearing to take a sharp swipe at Arsenal counterpart Mikel Arteta in the process, given the Spaniard’s own well-documented habit of patrolling the edge of the penalty area with impunity.
“I hope I don’t have to adapt. I’m very aware that I’m disappointed. I’m also very aware in many ways because from my perspective,” the Newcastle manager said. “If you’re 20 centimeters outside the box and you encourage and support your team in a positive, emotional way, I’m not sure if that’s a yellow card.
“And compared to when I saw some of my colleagues…”
Jessel did not name Arteta directly, but given the frequency with which the Arsenal boss has been photographed outside his technical area over the years, as well as the new rivalry created by some contentious moments in recent head-to-head meetings between the two clubs, the inference is difficult to ignore.
Jessel also hinted at his line-up options for the Leeds game, suggesting Matias Fernandez Pardo is not far away from starting the game: “Yes, he’s getting closer. I said we need to manage his load wisely. Now he’s getting more minutes. He’s got almost a full training week with Leeds now, which helps him a lot.”
“I think for the first time since he’s arrived, then we can make a decision on Sunday or even Monday.”